Jouko Niinimäki, the outgoing Rector of the University of Oulu, received thanks for strengthening the university's position

On 21 January 2025, the rector's chain of office changed hands at the University of Oulu. Mikko Ayub, Chair of the Board of the University of Oulu, thanked Rector Jouko Niinimäki for the important and ambitious work he has done, including strengthening the University of Oulu's position.

"The University of Oulu has come a long way and has established itself among the top universities in Finland, and in certain areas in the world. We have Jouko Niinimäki to thank for this – and all the people at the university," says Ayub.

The University of Oulu's total funding, and with it the number of staff, is currently higher than at any time in its 67-year history. The number of new students has also increased. In addition to improved research and educational performance, excellent results have been achieved in attracting research funding. The University of Oulu has been ranked among the top three universities in several consecutive rounds of the Research Council of Finland funding programme supporting universities' strategies for strengthening their profile. The University of Oulu is the fourth most successful university in Finland in terms of total EU funding and the first in terms of success in consortium projects.

According to Ayub, Rector Arto Maaninen will be leading a university that is in excellent condition and has lived and evolved with the times. He promised Maaninen his full support.

"We must do everything we can to ensure that the University of Oulu is one of Finland's leading universities in research, teaching and social impact. We all have a common interest in defending education and knowledge."

In his speech, Mikko Ayub also pointed out that the task of a university rector is not an easy one in age when critical thinking is under threat. Decisions have to be made even when they are difficult.

Professor Jouko Niinimäki, who ended his term as Rector of the University of Oulu, will take up the position of Executive Vice-President of the University of the Arctic (UArctic) in April 2025, after ten years as rector of the University of Oulu. UArctic is a network of nearly 200 universities, educational organisations and research institutes in the Arctic.

"The university development has required determined work, vision and commitment from the entire university community. I would like to thank everyone at the university for the progress it has made. Every achievement is always based on people, their dedication and their sense of community. Professionals are at the heart of good development", says Jouko Niinimäki.

"Turning change into an advantage requires the ability to adapt and the ability to lead. I believe that the University of Oulu can continue to fulfil its mission and develop further."